For much of 2018, The Source LGBT+ Center has focused on voter education in Visalia to encourage civic engagement and participation in the voting process. We are glad we did. The timing couldn’t be more urgent for pro-equality minded people to show up in force and cast votes that come from an informed position to move in the direction of progress and equality.

Last weekend, our nation’s transgender population was attacked with threats to rollback recognition and important federal protections designed to help them thrive in our free and open society. The potential proposals could hurt more than LGBTQ people. They are aimed at taking on basic human rights belonging to each and every person.

That’s why every single one of us must exercise the right to vote. We need to ensure we are heard and show what we already know to be true: the LGBTQ community is a vibrant, vital, and will not be erased.

From Pride events in downtown and voter registration drives to simple informative conversations on how to register and cast a ballot, we have endeavored to educate our community on the ease of the process and the importance of every vote. Our vote is our strongest voice, and a vote for change, tolerance, and acceptance cannot be ignored by those who eventually get elected.

We have watched with mouths agape every time another vulnerable group is targeted or marginalized because of their origin, skin color, gender, or how and whom they love. LGBTQ people stand up, march and protest for what is just and right. We know how to fight for our rights because we have been forced to. But guess what: we can also vote.

Earlier this year, a young gay man visited our center seeking information on health care resources in the area. The conversation shifted to civic engagement and he was asked if he was registered to vote. His answer was eye-opening. His answer was, “no." Better still, even if he had been registered he didn’t know how or where or why he would be voting, so he was going to “skip it”.

His case is not unique. As of 2017, millennials numbered 56 million nationally, surpassing both baby boomers and Gen Xers in sheer numbers. In California, 16 percent of the state’s 10 million millennials identify as openly LGBTQ, a poll released last year by Equality California found. If these 18-35-year-old were to vote, their voices would indeed make a difference in determining the fate of the protections and freedoms we value.

At The Source, we have paid special attention to educating our youth and young adults on the voting process, many of whom don’t understand it and therefore are disengaged, opting not to vote at all.

Considering that of the total registration in Tulare County, young adults aged 17.5 -35 make up nearly 35 percent of registered voters, taking the time to become educated and engaged is well worth it.

The young man who inspired us is now registered, armed with California and Tulare voter guides and will be voting his conscience. He now understands the importance of staying engaged and informed and voting in midterm elections.

We are proud that our center in Visalia is serving as a place where LGBT people and their allies can learn about the voting process and feel connected to government as decision makers. We have seen the power of educating young voters on issues that affect them directly.

Educated voters make informed decisions and cast votes that support their values and interests.

We believe that voting is the new rally venue, an impactful place to make lasting change. We believe that your vote matters more than ever.

At a time when a handful of votes can make a difference, make sure your voice is heard. Get informed. Get up. Get out and vote.